Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

The Lung Volume Reduction Surgery program originated from UCSD's participation in the National Emphysema Treatment Trial, which evaluated lung volume reduction surgery in patients with advanced emphysema.

As one of 17 centers chosen for the trial, and the only one in California, the National Emphysema Treatment Trial demonstrated that a small portion of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) could benefit from lung volume reduction surgery.

About Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

Goals of Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

Increase the elasticity of the lung

Decrease the lung to a more normal size

Enable the patient to breathe deeply once again

Surgery Targets Most Damaged Areas in the Lungs

Once the damaged tissue is removed, the over expanded lung is reduced to a more normal size.